Matane: Downstream processing due

 PNG must process its raw materials such as timber and create jobs for locals, according to former Governor-General Sir Paulias Matane.

Sir Paulias said he was shocked when Trade, Commerce and Industry  Minister Richard Maru said recently that the country lost billions of kina by processing exports such as fish and timber outside the country.

“We have to start processing our raw materials in the country then sell to other countries,” he said.

He said it would create employment for those on the job market, including school leavers.

“The time is now,” he said.

“We cannot delay and ignore the fact that we are losing money only because we are lazy to tap into something we know we are capable of doing,” he said.

Sir Paulias also supported calls by Education Minister James Marape for the creation  of more jobs to cater for the growing number of graduates from educational institutions joining the job markets every year.

“Let us bring money into the country by processing our raw resources and keep money in the country by providing jobs for our young generation,” Sir Paulias said.